Ciaron Maher & David Eustace

Ciaron Maher and David Eustace have built what is arguably the most formidable training partnership in Australian racing right now. Operating from a sprawling base at Caulfield in Melbourne with significant satellite operations in Sydney and on the Gold Coast, the duo have risen rapidly to challenge Chris Waller for supremacy in the Australian training ranks. Sheer volume, exceptional horsemanship, and an aggressive approach to targeting the biggest races on the calendar — that’s the Maher-Eustace formula, and it’s working brilliantly.

Partnership History

Ciaron Maher established himself as a solo trainer of rare ability before forming his partnership with English-born David Eustace in 2018. Maher had already trained a Caulfield Cup winner in Jameka (2016) and demonstrated a keen eye for identifying talent at the yearling sales. Eustace brought international experience and a meticulous approach to stable management that complemented Maher’s intuitive horsemanship perfectly. Together, they’ve created a training powerhouse that fields runners at every major carnival across the country.

The partnership’s Group 1 roll call is extensive — and growing every single season. Golden Slipper, Caulfield Cup, multiple Blue Diamond Stakes, perennial Melbourne Cup contenders. Their ability to prepare two-year-olds for the juvenile features while simultaneously campaigning older horses in weight-for-age races demonstrates a depth and versatility that’s genuinely impressive. With well over 50 Group 1 victories to their name, Maher and Eustace show absolutely no signs of slowing down.

Trainer Profile

Stable Operations

The scale of the Maher-Eustace operation is genuinely remarkable. At any given time, the stable may have in excess of 300 horses in work across their multiple training centres. Their approach combines high-volume purchasing at yearling sales with astute private acquisitions, and they’ve developed a reputation for sourcing potential stars at accessible price points — which makes them incredibly popular with owners. The partnership’s commitment to staff development and equine welfare has earned them respect throughout the industry, and their willingness to travel horses interstate for the right race ensures their presence at every major meeting.

NC — Staff sports writer, australiafootball.com